Catheter Culture

Synonyms

• CATHETER TIP
• CX CATHETER
• LAB11797

Cerner Name

Catheter Culture

Clinical Info

This test is a semi-quantitative culture intended for central line catheter tips to aid the diagnosis of catheter related bacteremia. Results should be interpreted in the context of patient medical history, risk factors, and other laboratory findings. 

Specimen Sources

Cath tip Catheter

Specimen Types

Foreign Body

Specimen Volume

Collect 3-5 cm of the distal tip of the catheter aseptically and into a sterile container.

Container

Sterile container

Collection Instructions

1.Cleanse the skin around the site with 70% alcohol. 2. Remove catheter.
3. Aseptically clip off 3 cm to 5 cm of distal end of catheter.
4. Place catheter tip into a screw-capped, sterile container.
5. Label container with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.
6. Transport to Northwell Health Laboratories –Little Neck Parkway refrigerated
7. Maintain sterility and forward promptly.
Note: Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

Transport Instructions

Transport to Northwell Health Laboratories –Little Neck Parkway-refrigerated.

Specimen Stability

48 hours, refrigerated.

Methodology

Bacterial Culture

Days Performed

Monday through Saturday

Performing Laboratories

Northwell Health Laboratories

CPT

87070

PDM

6201306

Results

Result Interpretation

Forms